He also said that the EU failed to benefit from the policy of sanctions, which have rode roughshod over the political dialogue between Brussels and Moscow.
"Russia's actions in Syria clearly indicate that Moscow is a key international player. This is why it is necessary to renew direct open dialogue between Europe and Russia, which should be based on the principles of equality and mutual respect," Castalda said.
At the same time, he said that the Italian government may not be ready to take such a step, given the fact that Washington influences its position.
"I hope that the Syrian peace talks give us the opportunity to lift the anti-Russian sanctions as soon as possible, which was the case with Iran, and the recent agreement on its nuclear program," he said.
He was echoed by Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Siyyarto, who earlier said that "the EU cannot take a covert decision on the sanctions."
The EU and its allies introduced several rounds of sanctions against Russia beginning in 2014, having accused Moscow of meddling in the Ukrainian conflict.
Russia has repeatedly refuted the allegations, stressing that it is not a party in the Ukrainian conflict and warning that the US and NATO are amassing troops and equipment on its borders. He says this runs contrary to previous agreements and may weaken regional and global stability.
